This was the first day I blogged about a hike in Hot Springs National Park. I saw the puppy above on the Hot Springs Mountain Road and after failing to catch it I thought posting a photograph might let the owner know it was still alive. The blog got the attention of my Twitter and facebook friends so I decided to continue posting my adventures. I backed dated and added images and information from my notes to create posts going back to first day I hiked in Hot Springs National Park in November 2009. Over the past year I have posted 8,665 images, made 251 blog entries and begun making videos as well. I am thankful to have been able to upgrade from using a compact camera to a DSLR this past November.

To those who have read my blog this past year I am grateful for your company as I hike😉 You kind thoughts and comments are a treasure beyond words.

My Husband and I are both July babies so on days in between our two birthdays we celebrate our “Soul Days”. Today we decided to go to the Ansel Adams Adams exhibit at the MOCA in the Historic Ozark Bathhouse in Hot Springs National Park on Central Avenue. As we began our walk we came across a Northern Mockingbird Chick in the entrance of the unoccupied Superior Bathhouse. It was calling out to a Pair of young parents and a nearby older baby. We were able to encourage the Baby to seek shelter under the shade of a bush and Rick poured water nearby. It’s slightly older sibling flew down and landed on top of the bushes practicing it’s flight techniques.

As much as we wanted to pick it up and help the little chick it was important to allow its family to assist its newly discovered flight skills. It was a blessing to be in the company of these babies and we took great care never to touch them. We did not want cause its parent to reject it because we left out scent on it’s tiny body.

The Ansel Adams exhibit was wonderful, oh to have him here; I have so many questions. He spent a decade living in and photographing Yosemite National Park, his total immersion in the park is something I understand. Living across the street from Hot Springs National Park I know how a near daily trek in the park changes how you see it. From the smallest Pebble to the largest Rock, Trees as leafless sculptures and decked out in full Spring greenery it all brings great passion to my heart. Thank You my beloved Husband for this beautiful “Soul Day” Gift!

I believe whether it is your back yard or a nearby park regular visits will change how you see Nature, each day brings new surprises.